Provided is a method for the treatment of blood vessel occlusions comprising the localized anchoring of a catheter during the procedure by temporarily adhering its tip to the occlusion treatment site using a vacuum. Also provided is a catheter with a vacuum anchoring tip controlled by an externally generated vacuum a catheter with a vacuum anchoring tip controlled by a self generated vacuum and a catheter with a vacuum anchoring tip in which the vacuum is controlled by an electronic signal. The localized anchoring method utilizes a vacuum to secure the tip of the catheter in place while allowing a free passage for the wire or dedicated occlusion penetrating device and thereby frees the operator from constantly monitoring the tip position and pushing the catheter to support the advancement of the wire.
